Arnold Schwarzenegger Takes Over as Host of 'Celebrity Apprentice'

Arnold Schwarzenegger will join Celebrity Apprenticeânot as a contestant but as the new host of the program, following current presidential hopeful Donald Trump, who departed messily amid a flurry of controversy earlier this year. Schwarzenegger will board the series in its upcoming 15th season, set to air in 2016-2017.

Although many might consider hosting a reality show as a step down for a man who spent decades as one of the biggest movie stars in the worldânot to mention serving as governor of Californiaâthis could be a smart move by the Terminator. At some point, even the most iconic film actors are forced to accept supporting roles, but in television it could be much easier for Schwarzenegger to maintain his status.

The actor said in a statement: "I have always been a huge fan of Celebrity Apprentice and the way it showcases the challenges and triumphs of business and teamwork. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the boardroom and to continue to raise millions for charity. Let's get started!"

Arnold Schwarzenegger will join Celebrity Apprentice—not as a contestant but as the new host of the program, following current presidential hopeful Donald Trump, who departed messily amid a flurry of controversy earlier this year. Schwarzenegger will board the series in its upcoming 15th season, set to air in 2016-2017.

Although many might consider hosting a reality show as a step down for a man who spent decades as one of the biggest movie stars in the world—not to mention serving as governor of California—this could be a smart move by the Terminator. At some point, even the most iconic film actors are forced to accept supporting roles, but in television it could be much easier for Schwarzenegger to maintain his status.

The actor said in a statement: "I have always been a huge fan of Celebrity Apprentice and the way it showcases the challenges and triumphs of business and teamwork. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the boardroom and to continue to raise millions for charity. Let's get started!"

Despite NBC's decision to sever ties with Trump following his "derogatory statements" about illegal immigrants from Mexico, Trump has made it clear that he wants the show to raise millions for worthy causes each year. After the news broke about Schwarzenegger replacing him as host, Trump tweeted, "Congrats to my friend @Schwarzenegger who is doing next season's Celebrity Apprentice. He'll be great & will raise lots of $ for charity."

In addition to hosting, Arnold Schwarzenegger will also executive produce the series alongside Mark Burnett, Page Feldman and Eric Van Wagenen.